Fire crew raising money for Spokane girl's service dog

SPOKANE, Wash. -- A young girl who suffers from a disease called Dravet Syndrome is in need of a service dog.

Sydnee O'Kelly lives in Station 13's first due area and constantly travels to Seattle for treatment, surgeries and procedures and has always wanted a service dog as a companion. The dog would help her and her family know when Sydnee was having a seizure.

A service dog is very expensive, so the family is looking for help in the form on donations online at herGoFundMe site.

When Sydnee's neighborhood firefighters at Station 13 heard her story, they began assisting the family by gathering clothing items for a clothing drive through Clothes For The Cause. They can raise money for every pound of clothing and textile items donated. Their goal is 250 large bags by May 2nd.

"My hope is that we can make the $10,000 goal so that they'll be able to go, get the dog, marry them up and have a really good life together," said Spokane Fire Department member Brian Schaeffer.

A life that would be easier for the brave 10-year-old who is now considered an honorary member of Fire Station 13.

"I'm blown away by all the help, it's very humbling," said Leah.

For now, there is no cure for Sydnee's syndrome.

If you would like to donate you could bring the clothing to Spokane Fire Station 13 at 1118 West Wellesley.